several deaths reported in minnesota and washington state. the big question a lot of people are asking, is it too late to get your flu shot? and how effective is the one you already have? abc's senior medical contributor, jennifer ashton, is with us here now. dr. ashton, let's talk about how widespread the flu is at this point? >> it's widespread. and we have to remember, this is not just a bad cold. this is truly a matter of life and death. if you look at the cdc weekly report, they are reporting widespread activity in about 29 states. other states are seeing cases. it is increasing relatively from the week before. we're expecting to be at this point in the year. >> you have the flu. i had it about 12 years ago. once it hits you, you know it's like nothing else. for 12 years, i've gotten the flu shot except this year because i hadn't heard anything about it, the way i have in years past. is the flu shot still effective now? and is it just starting to develop? >> well, don't be lulled into a false sense of security. the flu kills and causes m